Episode 627: Gravy On My Plate
Digest
Jim Cornette and Brian Last delve into the history and economics of wrestling "spot shows," particularly in southern territories, explaining their success in small towns. They transition to analyzing current wrestling, critiquing AEW's booking, pacing, and ticket sales for Wembley Stadium, with Jim expressing his decision to stop watching Dynamite. The conversation also covers in-ring incidents and injuries, the controversial use of Nielsen ratings, and the overexposure of musician Jelly Roll in WWE. They analyze Randy Orton's heel turn and feud with Cody Rhodes, discuss Matt Cardona's history with Cornette, and critique various WWE segments, including Jade Cargill's stable and a match involving Carmelo Hayes. The hosts express general dissatisfaction with the formulaic nature of modern wrestling and emphasize the importance of coherent storytelling. Advertisements for Perfect Gene pants, Harry's razors, and Helix mattresses are also featured.
Outlines
Introduction and Wrestling Spot Shows
The podcast begins with Jim Cornette and Brian Last welcoming listeners and discussing the concept and history of "spot shows" in wrestling territories. They analyze successful examples in Indiana and Mississippi, detailing how these events raised funds and engaged local communities, contrasting them with modern wrestling economics.
Memphis Booking and Cornette's Memorabilia Sale
The hosts discuss booking strategies in the Memphis territory, focusing on how stars like Jerry Lawler were utilized. Jim Cornette also announces an upcoming sale of his ring-worn apparel and memorabilia on his website.
In-Ring Incidents and Referee Training
The discussion shifts to analyzing a TNA match incident where a wrestler was knocked out, leading to a debate about performer safety and the adequacy of referee training in handling concussions and other in-ring injuries, referencing examples from OVW and AEW.
AEW's Wembley Stadium Ticket Sales and "Vanity Project" Concerns
Jim Cornette and Brian Last analyze AEW's ticket sales for their Wembley Stadium show, noting a significant drop compared to initial success. Jim expresses concern that the event might be a "vanity project" for Tony Khan due to financial viability questions.
AEW Dynamite Match Analysis and Booking Critiques
The hosts dissect specific matches on AEW Dynamite, including Swerve Strickland vs. Kenny Omega, questioning booking decisions and pacing. They also discuss the role of EVPs like Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks, with Jim expressing frustration and considering quitting watching the show.
AEW Roster Updates and Character Confusion
The discussion covers the return of Top Flight (Dante and Darius Martin) and Jon Moxley's seemingly abrupt character shifts. They also express disbelief at certain match pairings, like "Spitball" vs. Rocky Romero.
MJF, Kenny Omega, and AEW Audience Dynamics
MJF responds to Kenny Omega's challenge, with the hosts critiquing Omega's promo. They discuss the AEW audience's cynical enjoyment of the show's quirks and Jim reiterates his decision to stop watching Dynamite.
Nielsen Ratings Controversy and Advertisement Break
The hosts discuss the confusion and lack of faith in current Nielsen ratings methodology due to changes in TV vs. streaming viewership. This segment is followed by advertisements for Harry's razors.
Jelly Roll's WWE Presence and Overexposure Concerns
The hosts share mixed feelings about Jelly Roll's increasing involvement in WWE, questioning if his constant appearances are leading to fan fatigue and backlash. They also criticize WWE's promotional imagery featuring him.
Randy Orton's Promo, Matt Cardona Feud, and Cornette's History
Randy Orton delivers a strong promo, calling out Matt Cardona and injuring his arm. The hosts discuss Orton's entrance and persona, and delve into Matt Cardona's past criticism of Jim Cornette's action figures.
SmackDown Recap and Jade Cargill's Stable
A brief recap of a SmackDown tag match is provided. The discussion then shifts to Jade Cargill's new stable and their interaction with Rhea Ripley, leading to a match where Cargill's team overpowers Ripley.
Jelly Roll's In-Ring Performance Critique
The hosts analyze Jelly Roll's match against Kit Wilson, criticizing Jelly Roll's inexperience and lack of athleticism, noting how Kit Wilson carried the action.
Criticism of Modern Wrestling's Formulaic Nature and Helix Mattress Ad
The hosts express frustration with the repetitive and formulaic nature of modern wrestling shows. This is followed by an extended advertisement for Helix Sleep mattresses.
WWE United States Championship Match and Booking Inconsistency
The hosts discuss the controversial finish of the Carmelo Hayes vs. Sami Zayn United States Championship match, attributing booking inconsistencies to the lack of a single creative authority figure in WWE.
Jacob Fatu/Drew McIntyre Feud and Fan Engagement
The ongoing feud between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre is discussed, including their backstage fight and upcoming match. The hosts question the level of fan engagement with current WWE storylines.
Orton vs. Cardona Main Event and Orton's Heel Persona
Jelly Roll offers Matt Cardona a pep talk before his main event match against Randy Orton, which Orton wins decisively. The hosts analyze Orton's effective heel work and how fans continue to cheer him.
Cody Rhodes Confrontation, Jelly Roll's Role, and Storytelling Importance
Cody Rhodes confronts Randy Orton, leading to a brawl where Jelly Roll is RKO'd. The hosts discuss fan reactions to Orton's heel persona and emphasize the need for coherent storytelling in wrestling.
Jelly Roll's Overexposure and Podcast Sign-off
The hosts reiterate concerns about Jelly Roll's excessive presence in WWE, predicting fan fatigue. They conclude by discussing future podcast plans and signing off.
Keywords
Spot Shows
In professional wrestling, "spot shows" are one-off events held in smaller towns, often organized by local promoters to raise funds for community groups. These shows typically feature wrestlers from larger territories, offering fans a chance to see live action and stars they might only see on television.
Territory Days
Refers to the era of professional wrestling in North America before the widespread national expansion of major promotions. During the territory days, promoters controlled specific geographic regions, running regular shows and developing local talent.
AEW Wembley Stadium
Refers to All Elite Wrestling's major event held at Wembley Stadium in London, England. The event has drawn significant attention for its large-scale production and attendance figures, though recent ticket sales trends have raised questions.
In-Ring Injuries
Refers to physical harm sustained by professional wrestlers during matches or training. Increased awareness of concussions and other injuries has led to discussions about safety protocols, referee training, and the overall well-being of performers.
Nielsen Ratings
A system used to measure television viewership. Changes in Nielsen's methodology have caused controversy and confusion, particularly within the wrestling industry, as different counting methods yield vastly different audience numbers.
Perfect Gene Pants
A brand of comfortable and stylish pants promoted for their fit and flexibility. The brand is humorously linked to Tony Khan's perceived discomfort, suggesting the pants offer a solution for better movement and comfort.
EVP (Executive Vice President)
A high-ranking management position within a professional wrestling company. The role and influence of EVPs, particularly in AEW, have been a subject of discussion, with questions raised about their actual power and on-screen portrayal.
Jelly Roll
A country music artist who has made significant appearances in WWE, participating in storylines, backstage segments, and wrestling matches, sparking debate about his overexposure.
Randy Orton
A veteran WWE wrestler known for his "Viper" persona and exceptional in-ring ability. His recent heel turn and feud with Cody Rhodes are central to current WWE storylines.
Cody Rhodes
A prominent WWE wrestler and current top babyface, involved in a major feud with Randy Orton leading up to WrestleMania. His "finish the story" narrative is a key focus.
Q&A
What were "spot shows" in professional wrestling, and why were they successful?
Spot shows were independent wrestling events held in smaller towns, often organized by local groups for fundraising. They were successful because they brought popular wrestlers and TV stars to areas with limited entertainment options, creating a sense of novelty and community engagement.
What concerns have been raised about AEW's Wembley Stadium events?
Concerns have been raised about declining first-day ticket sales for AEW's Wembley Stadium shows compared to previous years. This trend, coupled with high venue costs, has led to speculation that the events might be financially unsustainable or driven by factors other than pure profitability.
How has the handling of in-ring injuries, particularly concussions, evolved in professional wrestling?
There's a growing emphasis on wrestler safety, leading to discussions about improved referee training, more cautious booking decisions, and quicker medical intervention. The increased awareness of concussions means that incidents that might have been overlooked in the past are now scrutinized more closely.
What is the significance of the "Perfect Gene" pants mentioned in the podcast?
The "Perfect Gene" pants are presented as a comfortable and stylish alternative to traditional jeans. They are humorously promoted as a solution to discomfort, with the implication that ill-fitting pants could affect one's demeanor, as suggested in relation to Tony Khan.
Why did Jim Cornette express frustration with AEW Dynamite's booking and match quality?
Jim Cornette cited repetitive match structures, slow pacing, and what he perceived as a lack of innovation or excitement in AEW's programming. He felt the shows had become predictable and uninspired, leading him to consider stopping his viewership.
What issues were discussed regarding the Nielsen ratings for wrestling programs?
The discussion highlighted the confusion and lack of credibility surrounding Nielsen ratings due to frequent changes in their measurement methodology. This has led to conflicting reports on viewership trends, making it difficult to accurately assess a show's popularity.
What is the main criticism regarding Jelly Roll's involvement in WWE?
The primary criticism is his overexposure. Despite being a big star, his constant presence in storylines and matches is seen by some as potentially alienating fans and leading to fatigue.
How is Randy Orton's current character portrayed in WWE?
Randy Orton has recently turned heel, embracing his "Viper" persona. He is involved in a major feud with Cody Rhodes, with his actions often generating cheers despite his villainous role.
What was the outcome of the Randy Orton vs. Matt Cardona match?
Randy Orton defeated Matt Cardona in the main event. Orton had previously injured Cardona's arm, and he focused on attacking the injured limb during the match, ultimately winning with an RKO.
Why are the hosts critical of WWE's booking consistency?
They argue that the lack of a single, definitive creative authority figure leads to repetitive angles and a lack of originality, making shows feel similar week after week.
Show Notes
This week on the Experience, Jim is in a bad mood and reviews AEW Dynamite and WWE Smackdown! Plus Jim talks about AEW's Wembley ticket sales, Mike Santana's vs. Steve Maclin at TNA Sacrifice, spot shows, and much more!
Thanks to our episode sponsors:
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